Substance Use in Pregnancy - What the Evidence Really Shows - Episode #1

Substance use during pregnancy is common, complicated, and often misunderstood. In Episode 1 of this two-part series, MamaDoc BabyDoc takes a clear, compassionate, evidence-based look at substances many people encounter every day—alcohol, nicotine and cigarettes, cannabis, and caffeine. We cut through myths, social media advice, and outdated warnings to answer the questions patients ask most: Is any amount of alcohol safe in pregnancy? Are vaping and nicotine replacement really safer than cigarettes? What does the research actually show about cannabis use? How much caffeine is too much—and why? This episode is judgment-free and fact-focused, designed to empower pregnant patients, partners, and providers with the science behind current recommendations—so you can make informed decisions without fear or shame. Next week, in Part 2, we'll tackle opioids, stimulants, benzodiazepines, and other prescription and illicit substances, including what to do if exposure has already occurred.